Livingstone, Zambia is a paradise for adventure-seekers, nature lovers, and anyone looking for a unique travel experience. Located on the banks of the Zambezi River and named after the famous explorer, David Livingstone, this town is home to some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in Africa.
With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan your itinerary. But don’t worry! We’ve compiled a list of 10 Must-Do Activities for an Unforgettable Trip to Livingstone that will help you make the most of your trip to Livingstone, Zambia.
From taking a dip in Devil’s Pool to experiencing the majestic Victoria Falls up close, these activities will leave you with unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. Read on to discover what Livingstone has in store for you!
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Introduction to Livingstone, Zambia
Livingstone, Zambia is a vibrant and diverse city located in the southern part of Africa. It is named after the famous explorer, David Livingstone, who was the first European to see Victoria Falls in 1855. The city is home to one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the Victoria Falls, which attracts millions of tourists every year.
Livingstone is not only known for its natural beauty but also for its rich culture and history. The city has a mix of traditional and modern buildings that reflect its colonial past and present. The locals are known for their friendliness and hospitality, and visitors are always welcomed with open arms.
Apart from Victoria Falls, Livingstone has many other attractions such as the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, Livingstone Museum, and the Mukuni Village. The city also has many adventure activities such as bungee jumping, white-water rafting, and helicopter tours.
Livingstone is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature, adventure, and culture. The city offers a unique blend of attractions that are sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable trip to Livingstone, Zambia.
Victoria Falls – the main attraction
When it comes to visiting Livingstone, Zambia, Victoria Falls is undoubtedly the main attraction and one of the most breathtaking sights in the world. As one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, Victoria Falls is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is shared by both Zambia and Zimbabwe. It is a massive curtain of falling water formed by the Zambezi River cascading over a sheer drop of more than 100 meters.
Visitors can view the falls from various viewpoints on both the Zambian and Zimbabwean sides, each offering a unique perspective of this natural wonder. On the Zambian side, the falls are viewed from the Knife Edge Bridge, which provides a stunning view of the Eastern Cataract and the Main Falls. Another popular viewpoint on the Zambian side is the Devil’s Pool, a natural pool located on the edge of the falls, where visitors can swim right up to the edge of the waterfall.
Apart from viewing the falls, visitors can also take part in various activities such as bungee jumping, helicopter rides, and white-water rafting among others. For a more relaxed experience, visitors can take a sunset boat cruise on the Zambezi River, where they can enjoy the stunning views and spot wildlife such as elephants, crocodiles, and hippos.
Overall, a visit to Victoria Falls is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Livingstone, Zambia. The sheer power, size, and beauty of the falls will leave you awe-inspired and provide an unforgettable experience.
Devil’s Pool – swim on the edge of the falls
If you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure, swimming in Devil’s Pool should definitely be on your list. Located at the edge of Victoria Falls, Devil’s Pool is a natural infinity pool that provides swimmers with an exhilarating experience of being just a few inches from the edge of the falls, peering down into the gorge below.
To get to the pool, you’ll take a short boat ride to Livingstone Island where you will then be guided through the water to the pool. Once you reach the pool, you’ll be able to swim in the calm waters and take in the stunning views of the falls. For those looking for an extra thrill, you can even lean over the edge of the pool and have your photo taken while hanging on for dear life.
While the experience can be scary for some, it’s completely safe as the rocks around the pool create a barrier that prevents swimmers from going over the edge. However, it’s important to note that the pool is only open during the dry season (usually from mid-August to mid-January) when the water levels are low enough for swimming.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience that combines adventure and natural beauty, swimming in Devil’s Pool is a must-do activity during your trip to Livingstone, Zambia.
River Safari – experience the wildlife on the Zambezi River
A river safari is a must-do activity for any visitor to Livingstone, Zambia. The Zambezi River is home to a diverse range of wildlife, and a river safari is the perfect way to experience it all.
As you glide along the river in a boat, you’ll be surrounded by stunning scenery and have the opportunity to spot a variety of animals in their natural habitat. Keep your eyes peeled for hippos, crocodiles, elephants, zebras, giraffes, and numerous species of birds.
The river safari is a great way to get up close and personal with the wildlife, and you’ll have the added bonus of being able to enjoy the cool breeze on your face as you cruise along the Zambezi River.
There are a variety of river safari options available, ranging from short 1-hour trips to longer excursions that can last up to four hours. Many tours also include a stop on one of the islands along the river, where you can explore and enjoy a picnic lunch.
Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or simply looking for a unique and relaxing experience, a river safari on the Zambezi River is not to be missed during your trip to Livingstone, Zambia.
Bungee Jumping – jump off the Victoria Falls Bridge
Livingstone, Zambia is a destination not to be missed on any African adventure and if you’re looking for an adrenaline-packed activity, bungee jumping off the Victoria Falls Bridge is the perfect choice.
The Victoria Falls Bridge stands at an impressive 111 meters above the Zambezi River, offering stunning views of the falls and surrounding landscape. Bungee jumping from this bridge is an unforgettable experience that will leave you feeling exhilarated and alive.
The jump itself is operated by a professional team who ensures your safety and comfort, and they have been operating for over 20 years with a 100% safety record. Before your jump, you will be given a full safety briefing and all necessary equipment will be provided.
As you jump off the bridge, you will experience a few seconds of freefall before bouncing back up and enjoying the swing over the rapids below. The feeling of weightlessness and the wind rushing past you is an experience like no other.
Bungee jumping off the Victoria Falls Bridge is a must-do activity for any thrill-seeker visiting Livingstone, Zambia. It’s an experience that will stay with you forever and will definitely make for an unforgettable trip.
White-Water Rafting – ride the rapids on the Zambezi River
If you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure in Livingstone, Zambia, then you can’t miss out on white-water rafting on the mighty Zambezi River. Known as the adrenaline capital of Africa, Livingstone has become a hub for adventure seekers from all corners of the planet. This is largely due to the Zambezi River, which offers some of the best white-water rafting experiences in the world.
The river is divided into different sections, each offering a unique level of difficulty and adventure. The most popular section is the Batoka Gorge, which is home to some of the wildest rapids on the river. Here, you can expect to navigate through rapids with names like “The Devil’s Toilet Bowl” and “Gnashing Jaws of Death”.
But don’t let these names intimidate you. White-water rafting on the Zambezi River is safe and professionally guided by experienced rafting guides. You’ll be provided with all the necessary safety gear, including a life jacket, helmet, and paddle. And if you’re a beginner, don’t worry, there are less challenging sections of the river that you can choose from.
The best time to go white-water rafting is during the low-water season, which runs from August to December. During this period, the rapids are at their most challenging and the scenery is breathtaking.
However, if you’re not a fan of white-water rafting, there are plenty of other activities you can try on the Zambezi River, including riverboarding, kayaking, and sunset cruises.
Cultural Village Tour – learn about Zambian culture and way of life
A cultural village tour is a great way to learn about the Zambian culture and way of life. You will get a chance to interact with the locals and learn about their customs, beliefs, and traditions. The village is typically set up to showcase how traditional Zambian communities live and operate, and you’ll get to see firsthand how their daily routines work. The village tour is also known as Chief Mukuni’s Village Tour.
During the tour, you will get a chance to visit traditional thatched huts, learn about the different tribes in Zambia, and witness traditional dances and music performances. You may even get to try out some of the traditional instruments yourself.
One of the highlights of the cultural village tour is the opportunity to taste traditional Zambian cuisine. You will get to sample dishes such as nshima (a staple food made from maize), roasted meat, and various vegetable dishes. The experience is not only educational but also a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and way of life.
If you’re interested in experiencing the true essence of Zambia, then a cultural village tour is a must-do activity on your trip to Livingstone. The tour is suitable for people of all ages and backgrounds, and it’s an experience that will stay with you long after your trip is over.
Livingstone Island Tour – visit the island where David Livingstone first saw the falls
A Livingstone Island tour is the perfect opportunity to experience the thundering waters of Victoria Falls from a unique perspective. This is the very spot where David Livingstone, the Scottish explorer, first laid eyes on the falls and aptly named them after Queen Victoria.
The tour starts with a boat ride to Livingstone Island, which is located on the edge of the falls. The island is small but lush, with beautiful flora and fauna that will leave you breathless. From there, a guide will take you to the edge of the island, where you can see the full size and power of the falls.
But the real highlight of the tour is the chance to swim in the Devil’s Pool, a natural rock pool right on the edge of the falls. The pool is only accessible during the dry season (usually from mid-August to mid-January) when the water levels are low enough to allow for safe swimming. It’s a thrilling experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
The Livingstone Island tour is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Livingstone, Zambia. Not only does it offer a unique perspective of Victoria Falls, but it also allows you to follow in the footsteps of one of the greatest explorers in history. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience!
Rhino Walk – see the endangered white rhino up close
One of the most unforgettable experiences you can have in Livingstone, Zambia, is taking a Rhino Walk to see the endangered white rhino up close. The Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park is home to a small population of white rhinos that are unfortunately on the brink of extinction due to poaching. However, with the help of conservation efforts, these magnificent creatures are slowly making a comeback.
The Rhino Walk is a unique opportunity to see these creatures up close in their natural habitat. Led by experienced guides, you’ll walk through the bush tracking the rhinos and learning about their behavior and the conservation efforts being made to protect them. The thrill of seeing these majestic animals in the wild is truly an experience you won’t forget.
During the walk, you’ll learn about the rhinos’ diet, mating habits, and social behavior. You’ll also have the chance to take amazing photos of these incredible creatures in their natural surroundings. The guides will ensure your safety and make sure you learn as much as possible about these creatures and their importance to the ecosystem.
Remember that these rhinos are endangered, and their protection is of utmost importance. By participating in the Rhino Walk, you’re not only having an unforgettable experience but also contributing to the conservation efforts to save these incredible creatures from extinction.
Sunset Cruise – enjoy a relaxing cruise on the Zambezi River at sunset
A Sunset Cruise is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Livingstone. The Zambezi River is one of the most beautiful rivers in the world, and it offers stunning views that you simply cannot miss. The cruise takes you along the river, offering you an opportunity to see the diverse wildlife and birds that call the river their home. You’ll be able to spot hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and many other animals as you sip on a refreshing drink and enjoy the beautiful sunset.
As you watch the sun go down, you’ll see the sky transform into a beautiful tapestry of colors. The oranges, pinks, and purples of the African sunset are truly breathtaking, and you’ll be able to capture some amazing photos to take home with you. The sound of the water lapping against the boat, the wind in your hair, and the warmth of the sun on your skin make for an unforgettable experience.
There are many sunset cruises to choose from in Livingstone, ranging from large boats with bars and music to smaller, more intimate cruises with only a few other guests. You can choose the type that suits your preferences, but regardless of which you choose, a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River is an experience you’ll never forget.
Where to stay and how to get around
When planning a trip to Livingstone, Zambia, finding the right accommodation is key. Luckily, Livingstone caters to all types of travelers, from backpackers to luxury seekers. There are plenty of options to choose from, including lodges, hotels, and resorts.
For those seeking a luxurious stay, the Royal Livingstone Hotel is a great option. Located on the banks of the Zambezi River, this hotel offers stunning views and top-notch amenities, including a world-class spa and multiple fine dining options.
For budget-conscious travelers, Jollyboys Backpackers is a popular choice. This hostel has dorms and private rooms, a pool, and an on-site bar and restaurant.
As for getting around, Livingstone has various transportation options. Taxis are readily available, and it’s important to negotiate the fare beforehand. Some accommodations also offer shuttle services to popular attractions.
For those seeking a more adventurous mode of transportation, renting a bicycle or scooter is a great option. This allows travelers to explore Livingstone at their own pace and gives them the flexibility to stop and take in the sights as they, please.
Another popular way to get around Livingstone is by booking guided tours. Many tour operators offer transportation to and from attractions, as well as knowledgeable guides to enhance the experience.
No matter what your travel style or budget, Livingstone has accommodation and transportation options to suit your needs.
Conclusion and additional tips for an unforgettable trip to Livingstone, Zambia
In conclusion, Livingstone, Zambia is an incredible destination that offers a wide range of amazing activities and experiences. From visiting Victoria Falls, one of the seven natural wonders of the world, to enjoying the wildlife in the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Livingstone.
To make the most of your trip, it’s important to plan ahead and make arrangements for your preferred activities. It’s also essential to pack appropriately for the climate and to stay hydrated while exploring the natural wonders of Livingstone.
Additionally, it’s recommended to hire a local tour guide who can provide you with valuable insights and information about the area. They can also recommend additional activities and hidden gems that you may not find on your own.
Finally, don’t forget to immerse yourself in the local culture and try some traditional Zambian cuisine. The friendly locals and vibrant atmosphere will make your trip to Livingstone, Zambia truly unforgettable.
